250 years of American Independence

The Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs at the U.S. Embassy in Manama, through the Public Affairs Section (PAS), has announced the “America @ 250 – Bringing American Excellence to Bahrain” funding opportunity in commemoration of the 250th anniversary of American Independence on July 4, 2026. This initiative is designed to showcase American leadership, talent, and expertise across arts, music, sports, and innovation, fostering cultural exchange and mutual understanding between the United States and Bahrain. The program will feature a variety of in-person and media engagements aimed at highlighting America’s contributions and strengthening U.S.-Bahrain relations. The opportunity is open to a single awardee for a project duration of 10 to 12 months, with an anticipated start date of March 1, 2026, pending availability of funds. Funding for this opportunity is provided through FY25/FY26 Smith-Mundt Public Diplomacy Funds under Assistance Listing Number 19.040 (Public Diplomacy Programs). The award will range from a minimum of $10,000 to a maximum of $80,000, with total funding capped at $80,000. The funding instrument may be a grant, fixed amount award, or cooperative agreement, with substantial involvement from the embassy or bureau possible. Proposed projects should be completed within 12 months and align with the stated program goals. Acceptable activities include programs that educate, engage, and unite around shared values; multimedia exhibits; educational and media partnerships; performances and collaborations; entrepreneurship initiatives; and events highlighting American achievements in science, technology, and innovation. Eligibility is open to individuals, as well as public and non-profit entities based in Bahrain or the United States. For-profit entities are not eligible. Cost sharing is not required but is encouraged and will be viewed positively during merit review. Organizations must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and active SAM.gov registration, except individuals who are exempt from these requirements. All applicants must comply with applicable U.S. federal laws, anti-discrimination policies, and other relevant grant administration regulations. Applications must include the required SF-424 series forms, a proposal of no more than eight pages, a budget justification narrative, and supporting attachments such as resumes of key personnel and letters of support from partners. Proposals should clearly state goals, objectives, activities, and anticipated outcomes, include a monitoring and evaluation plan, and outline sustainability beyond the funding period. Budgets must be in U.S. dollars, detailed, and reflect allowable costs. Submission is due no later than January 5, 2026, by 5:00 PM AST via email to ManamaPAO@state.gov or through Grants.gov or MyGrants. There is no pre-application deadline, and no separate deadlines for letters of intent or concept papers are mentioned. Applications will be evaluated on the quality and feasibility of the program idea, organizational capacity, planning and ability to achieve objectives, budget reasonableness, monitoring and evaluation plan, and sustainability. Award notices will be issued by the Grants Officer, and unsuccessful applicants will be notified by February 2, 2026. The award will require regular financial and program reporting, adherence to federal regulations, and compliance with U.S. Department of State standard terms and conditions. This opportunity provides a platform for fostering long-term cultural connections and promoting the values and achievements of the United States in Bahrain during a historic commemorative year.